Utilization and limitations of the American College Health Association's National College Health Assessment instrument: A systematic review

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the literature in which researchers have utilized the National College Health Assessment (NCHA) I or the NCHA II. PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS: The authors selected peer-reviewed articles published between 2004 and July 2013 utilizing a single search term: National College Health Assessment. Articles were assessed for instrument use, limitations, and data analyses. RESULTS: The search resulted in 72 articles for inclusion. Researchers used the instrument to either conduct a primary investigation or utilize reference group data for secondary analysis. Researchers used many data analyses, statistical tests, techniques, and methods. Limitations of the instrument were consistently mentioned by researchers. CONCLUSIONS: Results indicate limitations in the NCHA. To ensure college health professionals are gaining the best information possible regarding students on their campuses, specific improvements to the NCHA are recommended.